Sunken Engine Review & Preview – Lovecraftian Ship Repair Simulator by Two Nomads Studio and PlayWay

Sunken Engine by Two Nomads Studio and PlayWay S.A. is not your typical simulation game.

It takes the familiar mechanics of a ship repair business and drenches them in the chilling, shadowy essence of Lovecraftian horror. What begins as a story of legacy and survival soon unravels into something far darker—a descent into madness, mystery, and cosmic dread.

At its heart, Sunken Engine is a ship repair simulation with a strong narrative focus. You inherit your father’s old shipyard, located on a fog-covered island somewhere along a busy sea route. Each ship that docks carries not only damage to repair but also whispers of secrets and unseen horrors. The more you work, the more you realize that these ships—and their captains—are tied to something deeply sinister.

Gameplay & Features

The core loop revolves around repairing ships, maintaining customer satisfaction, and keeping the business afloat. However, every job brings new risks. The supernatural events that plague your workshop threaten both your sanity and your survival. Maintaining mental stability becomes as important as managing your tools and resources. Losing your grip on reality may attract entities from beyond, pushing the player into intense moments of psychological horror.

Beyond repair work, Sunken Engine adds depth through its economy system. You can sell goods salvaged from shipwrecks at your market stall, balancing moral choices against financial necessity. The world feels lived-in and oppressive—resources are scarce, and survival often requires questionable decisions.

Progression feels meaningful, with new licenses and tools unlocking the ability to work on larger and more complex ships. Customization is another standout feature; upgrading your workshop, modifying equipment, and decorating your workspace create a satisfying sense of ownership. Yet, these personal touches contrast beautifully with the game’s ever-present sense of dread.

Atmosphere & Tone

The game’s Lovecraftian inspiration runs deep. Instead of relying on jump scares, Sunken Engine builds tension through isolation, whispered dialogue, and a growing unease that something ancient watches from the sea. The narrative is immersive, slowly unraveling the truth behind your father’s death and the island’s dark history. The more you repair, the more you question reality itself.

Sunken Engine stands out as one of the most intriguing indie horror simulations in recent years. It merges business management, narrative-driven gameplay, and psychological horror in a way that feels fresh and unsettling. Each ship repaired tells a story, every decision matters, and the creeping dread never lets go.

For fans of Lovecraftian horror, simulation games, and story-rich experiences, Sunken Engine promises a unique blend of atmosphere and tension that lingers long after you leave the workshop.